I recently conquered a VIP Coaster Climb I’ve been wanting to try for a while – THE SWARM Coaster Climb! In this feature, I’ll take you through the entire experience, providing all the details from start to finish.

Beginning The Experience

Health & Safety Briefing

Once your VIP host arrives, they’ll escort you to the Lake View Marquee, where you’ll receive a comprehensive briefing on health and safety, as well as the rules of the experience. Two key points to remember are:

• No loose articles: You shouldn’t bring anything on your Swarm Coaster Climb, with the exception of your phone. You’ll be provided with a lanyard that has a clear phone pouch. Your phone must stay in this pouch at all times, and the lanyard must remain around your neck throughout the experience. If you wish to pass your phone to another guest or your VIP host, you must physically touch heads and pass the lanyard over your head.
• No photos in the operator cabin: Merlin Entertainments has a strict rule against taking photos inside any operator booth or cabin. If you’re caught taking photos in the cabin, you won’t be allowed to continue with THE SWARM Coaster Climb.

After covering the rest of the rules and safety requirements, you’ll be given a harness to put on. The harness features two over-the-shoulder straps (one on each shoulder) and two straps that connect to the back, passing through the middle of your legs (so be sure to avoid wearing a skirt during this experience!). The straps then attach in the middle to secure you for the climb.

Heading to the Operator Cabin

With everyone harnessed up, your VIP host will lead the group to THE SWARM’s operator cabin. Walking through the quiet, empty park after closing is a surreal experience in itself. Once inside the operator cabin, you’ll get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how the ride is controlled. Although photos are not allowed in this area, the insight you gain into the technical workings and safety protocols of the coaster is fascinating. Your host will share interesting details about THE SWARM’s design and history, adding an educational aspect to the experience.

Beginning the Swarm Coaster Climb

After the operator cabin tour, it’s time to tackle the main event: the coaster climb. You’ll start at the base of the lift hill, attaching yourself to a safety line that runs all the way up the structure. The climb begins here, and while it might feel a bit intimidating at first, the harness and safety line provide plenty of security. The ascent is done at a steady pace, allowing you to take in the unique perspective of being on the framework of a roller coaster.

The View from the Top

Upon reaching the top of THE SWARM, 127 feet above the ground, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view. From this vantage point, you can see the entire layout of the ride, from its twisted inversions to the thematic wreckage below. On a clear evening, the view extends well beyond the park, offering a stunning panorama that’s particularly striking at sunset. This is the ideal moment to take out your phone (still safely secured in its pouch) and capture some memorable photos. The sense of accomplishment, combined with the incredible view, makes the climb to the top an unforgettable experience.

Wrapping Up the Experience

After enjoying the views and snapping some pictures, you’ll begin your descent back to ground level. The walk down is as steady and secure as the climb up, and once you’re back on solid ground, your VIP host will guide you back to the Lake View Marquee. Here, you’ll remove your harness and be presented with some exclusive mementos of your experience – a VIP lanyard, a pin badge, and a certificate to commemorate your achievement.

Final Thoughts

The Swarm Coaster Climb VIP experience is an extraordinary adventure for any thrill-seeker or theme park enthusiast. From the exclusive behind-the-scenes look in the operator cabin to the exhilarating climb and stunning views, it’s an experience that offers a unique way to appreciate one of the UK’s most intense coasters. This is an adventure you won’t soon forget, and the lanyard, pin badge, and certificate serve as perfect reminders of your incredible journey.

VIP Coaster Climbs can be booked by clicking here.

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